While we consider the past year, a assortment of remarkable feature-length stories shines. These narratives probe intricate themes from political intrigue and historical revelations to deeply human sagas.
The Puzzling Author and the Conscience of a Nation
Victor Pelevin rose to fame in the 1990s with biting commentaries on autocratic rule. Although numerous of his literary contemporaries have faced suppression or left the country, he continues to sell vast numbers of copies. It raises a key question: Has he evolved into an defender for the regime?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Brutal Civil War
The story of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his only way out of incarceration was to join the government forces. Following 14 years, his former role as one of Assad's soldiers could now get him killed.
The Bitter Feud Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The finding of fossilised remains in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was hailed as fundamentally changing the history of our human race. But, a faction was persuaded. The subsequent bitter controversy has taken over the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
A UK Cult That Operated in the Open
One woman was just a child when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in uncover the shocking scale of mistreatment it had committed.
A Leader's Puzzling Stance on International Law
Many followers hoped that the prime minister would reaffirm the the nation's dedication to human rights. Yet, the performance over the first year in office has been notably mixed.
Shattering a Nation's Identity
A film following a repentant con artist as she sets up unscrupulous clients with covert recording asks complex questions: Is she genuinely reformed, and what are the director's true intentions?
A Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Difficult Scenes
From murder scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has encountered – and cleaned – everything. In their darkest hours, people rely on him to bring back normalcy.
Can an Iconic Institution Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Beset by colonial controversy, precarious finances and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's premier museum is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Is it possible to repair its reputation?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Agony of Severe Condition
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has long lacked an reliable medical end – up until possibly now.
The Ghost of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A violent extremist and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideas shape the very highest levels of government.
An British Gentleman With a Crooked Secret
With his keen mind and flawless credentials, it's little wonder that high-net-worth clients trusted him with their fortunes. Then they started to become uneasy.
A Tiny State That Emerged as the World's Mediation Center
An astonishingly rich Gulf state has become a major actor on the world stage, striving to mediate some of the most long-standing disputes. Which factors are behind this unprecedented endeavor?
A Inside View at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Battle
Deeply disliked at domestically, the French leader thrives on the world arena, where he presents himself as the leader uniquely positioned to handle a certain sitting American leader. 7 years after their last meeting, a writer joined him as he readied himself for battle.
During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the child of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her companion, charged with killing their two-week-old baby?
The End of a Global Aid Organization: Far From Widespread Mourning
When efforts were made to dismantle a prominent development organization, many around the world were taken aback. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest letdown was not unexpected.
A Unethical 1960s Study on South Asian Mothers
When details about a scientific experiment in the 1960s were revealed, there was immense anxiety. But the precise truth of the events remains partially contested.
A "Genius" of the Online Age
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and given away vast sums of cash to selected participants. But are these videos simply very clever entertainment – or acts of avant garde brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is facing the possibility that their homeland may soon cease to exist. The urgent issue is: Where are they going to relocate?
A Heartbreaking Case of Childhood Homelessness
When I met a young boy he was 13 and homeless. Even then hoped his life might change for the better. I was devastatingly misplaced.
A International AI Competition and a Key Defection
In the recent past, after living decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he may possess the answers to who prevails in the global AI race.
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